On Tuesday, a Dutch court will hear Shell’s appeal against a historic climate verdict. The verdict ordered the company to significantly increase planned greenhouse gas emission reductions.
In 2021, the district court in The Hague ordered the oil and gas major to cut its carbon emissions by 45% by 2030 compared to 2019 levels. This mandate aims to address the company’s contribution to global warming.
The ruling addressed emissions from Shell’s operations as well as those brought on by customers and end users. Amid mounting demand from governments, investors, and environmentalists for energy firms to swiftly increase investments in renewable energy sources, it occurred. They urged a shift away from fossil fuels.
Shell contends that there is no legal basis for the order and that businesses are not liable for the emissions of their customers.
The corporation posted a statement on its website that stated, “We agree that the world needs urgent climate action, but we have a different view in how that goal should be achieved.”
“By focusing on one company, and only on the supply of energy rather than the demand for it, we believe the ruling is ineffective and even counterproductive in addressing climate change.”
The group that filed the lawsuit, Friends of the Earth Netherlands, expressed confidence before the appeal.
Roger Cox, the group’s attorney, stated, “The scientific basis on which we’ve founded our claims against Shell has only solidified.”
“I am confident that we can once again convince the judges that Shell needs to act in line with international climate agreements.”
Earlier this month, Shell confirmed its strategy to reduce emissions to net zero by 2050. However, it softened a 2030 carbon reduction target and dropped a 2035 goal, citing forecasts for robust gas demand and uncertainty in the energy transition.
Prior to the appeal, the business asserted in a statement that it was “not ignoring” the court ruling. It cited its investments of $10–15 billion in low-carbon energy solutions between 2023 and the end of 2025 as evidence of its commitment.
“We believe the actions we are taking are consistent with the ruling and its end of 2030 timeline,” the business stated.
Compared to 2016 intensity levels, Shell now aims to reduce the net carbon intensity of its energy products by 15-20% by 2030. Its prior goal was a twenty percent cut.
This month, the court has scheduled four days of hearings for the appeal. A decision is anticipated in the latter part of the year.
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